Did you just check your report card and are wondering how your grades were calculated? You might have seen GPA and CGPA mentioned, but what do they really mean?
Schools, colleges, and universities use these systems differently—some focus on GPA for internal assessments, while CGPA matters more for final qualifications, scholarships, and job applications.
If you’re planning to study abroad, understanding the difference between GPA and CGPA is important. Many universities in USA and Canada use a 4.0 GPA scale, while Indian institutions often follow a 10-point CGPA system.
Continue reading as we cover the difference between GPA and CGPA, how they are calculated, why they matter, and how they impact your education and career.
If you're a student, you've likely seen GPA and CGPA on your report card. While both measure academic performance, they are used differently. Understanding their purpose, calculation, and global grading variations can be helpful, especially if you're planning to study abroad or apply for scholarships.
Many universities and employers look at CGPA for degree qualifications, while GPA is used for semester-wise evaluations. Some countries rely solely on GPA (like USA and Canada), while others use CGPA (like India and Australia).
Want to understand GPA in detail? Read this comprehensive guide on GPA and how it impacts your academics.
Differences Between GPA and CGPA
Aspect
GPA
CGPA
Definition
Grade point average for one semester or term
Cumulative grade point average across multiple semesters
Purpose
Short-term academic evaluation
Long-term performance measurement
Calculation
Total grade points earned in a semester ÷ total subjects
Total grade points earned across semesters ÷ total subjects
Usage
Determines performance in individual semesters
Used for degree qualifications, scholarships, and job applications
Common Scale
Typically 4.0 scale (US, Canada), 10.0 scale (India)
Mostly 10.0 scale (India), converted to 4.0 scale for international applications
Importance
Matters for semester performance, scholarships
Required for graduation, higher education, and job applications
Differences Between GPA and CGPA: How Are They Used in Different Countries
Universities worldwide use different grading scales, which means GPA or CGPA might need conversion when applying abroad.
Country
GPA Scale
CGPA Scale
How It’s Used
India
10.0 scale (some universities use 4.0)
10.0 scale
University grading, job applications
USA
4.0 scale
Not commonly used
University admissions, scholarships
UK
Percentage-based grading, sometimes converted to GPA
Indian students applying to USA or Canada may need to convert their CGPA to GPA. Most universities provide a conversion scale or accept a WES (World Education Services) evaluation.
UK universities focus on percentage-based grading, so CGPA or GPA may need to be translated into degree classifications like First Class, Upper Second (2:1), or Lower Second (2:2).
Australian universities use a 7-point scale, so CGPA or GPA may be adjusted accordingly.
Schools and universities use GPA to track a student’s progress, determine eligibility for scholarships, and assess academic standing. It is based on the grades earned in different subjects, weighted by their credit hours.
Types of GPA
Semester GPA (SGPA): Calculates grades for one semester only.
Cumulative GPA (CGPA in some countries): Averages GPA scores from multiple semesters to reflect overall academic performance.
Formula for GPA Calculation
GPA= ∑Credit Hours/∑(Grade Points×Credit Hours)
Grade Points: Numeric values assigned to letter grades (e.g., A = 4.0, B = 3.0 in a 4.0 scale).
Credit Hours: Weightage assigned to each subject (e.g., a major subject might have 4 credits, while an elective might have 2).
Example: GPA Calculation for a Semester
Subject
Grade
Grade Points
Credit Hours
Grade Points × Credit Hours
Mathematics
A
4.0
3
12.0
Physics
B+
3.3
4
13.2
English
B
3.0
2
6.0
Computer Science
A-
3.7
3
11.1
Total Grade Points Earned: 42.3 Total Credit Hours: 12
GPA=42.3/12=3.53
A student’s semester GPA is 3.53 on a 4.0 scale.
How CGPA is Calculated?
CGPA provides a complete picture of a student's academic performance across multiple semesters. It helps universities and employers understand overall consistency in studies rather than just one term’s performance.
If you're applying to universities abroad, you might need to convert your GPA to CGPA or vice versa. Different countries follow different grading scales, and knowing how your grades translate can help avoid confusion during applications.
How is GPA Converted to CGPA?
Many universities in India and other countries using a 10-point scale require conversion when applying to places like the US, Canada, or Australia, which use a 4.0 or 7.0 GPA scale. The basic conversion formula is:
CGPA=(GPA/Max GPA Scale)×Max CGPA Scale
For example, if your GPA is 3.6 on a 4.0 scale, the equivalent CGPA on a 10.0 scale would be:
(3.6/4.0)×10=9.0
GPA to CGPA Conversion Table
GPA (4.0 Scale)
Equivalent CGPA (10.0 Scale)
4.0
10.0
3.8
9.5
3.6
9.0
3.4
8.5
3.0
7.5
2.5
6.5
Some universities may use slightly different conversion formulas, so always check their official grading policies.
Common Grading Systems in Different Countries
Grading systems aren’t universal. A 9.0 CGPA in India isn’t the same as a 3.6 GPA in the US, and UK universities use class-based degree classifications instead of GPA. Here’s how grading works in different countries:
Comparison of GPA/CGPA Systems Worldwide
Country
GPA Scale Used
CGPA/Percentage Equivalency
India
10.0 scale (some use 4.0)
9-10 CGPA = 90%+ (First Class with Distinction)
USA
4.0 scale
3.7-4.0 GPA = 90%+ (A grade)
UK
Percentage-based grading
70%+ = First Class Honours
Canada
4.0 scale
3.5+ GPA = 85%+ (A Grade Equivalent)
Australia
7.0 scale
6.0+ GPA = 85%+ (High Distinction)
In the UK, degrees are classified as First Class (70%+), Upper Second (60-69%), Lower Second (50-59%), and Third Class (40-49%).
Canada and USA use similar GPA scales, but grading policies can vary by university.
Australia’s 7.0 scale is unique, with 6.0+ considered High Distinction and 5.0+ as Distinction.
Confused about SGPA? Learn what it is and how it differs from GPA and CGPA in this guide on SGPA.
How Different Universities Interpret GPA & CGPA?
Not all universities calculate GPA and CGPA the same way. If you’re applying for higher education abroad, you might need to convert your CGPA to a different GPA scale based on the university’s policies. Some institutions follow a direct conversion, while others weigh grades differently based on credit hours or grading curves.
For example:
Harvard and Stanford use a strict 4.0 GPA scale, where a high percentage does not always guarantee a 4.0 GPA.
Universities in Canada and Australia accept both GPA and CGPA, but may adjust scores based on their grading policy.
Indian universities generally use a 10-point CGPA system, but conversion for USA universities can differ based on the institution.
GPA/CGPA Conversion at Top Universities
University Name
GPA/CGPA Conversion Method
Admission GPA Requirement
Harvard University (USA)
Uses a strict 4.0 GPA scale with weighted grading
3.8+ GPA preferred for graduate programs
University of Toronto (Canada)
Converts CGPA (10.0 scale) to 4.0 GPA
3.0–3.5 GPA required for most programs
University of Oxford (UK)
Uses percentage-based grading (UK Honours system)
First Class (70%+) or Upper Second (60-69%)
University of Melbourne (Australia)
Uses 7.0 GPA scale, converts CGPA from 10.0 scale
Minimum 5.5 GPA (7-point scale) for top programs
IIT Bombay (India)
Uses CGPA (10.0 scale), some programs follow percentage grading
8.0+ CGPA required for top graduate admissions
Tip: If you’re applying abroad, always check the university’s official conversion policy or use a service like WES (World Education Services) for accurate GPA calculation.
If your GPA or CGPA isn’t where you want it to be, making small adjustments to your study habits and course strategies can help you increase your scores over time.
Tips to Improve GPA & CGPA
Prioritize Courses with Higher Credit Hours
Subjects with more credit hours have a bigger impact on GPA.
Focus on high-weightage subjects to maximize your semester score.
Manage Time Effectively
Set a weekly study schedule to avoid last-minute stress.
Break down tough subjects into smaller, manageable tasks.
Use Academic Resources
Attend tutoring sessions or online courses for difficult subjects.
Join study groups to clarify doubts and get peer support.
Avoid Failing Subjects
A failed subject drastically lowers CGPA and may require retaking the course.
Even a passing grade (C or D) is better than an F in most universities.
Stay Consistent Across Semesters
A high CGPA depends on steady performance across all semesters.
Even if your GPA was low in an earlier semester, improving later scores can still boost your CGPA.
Remember: Universities look for improvement trends, so even if your GPA started low, consistent growth shows academic commitment.
Convert CGPA to GPA Using upGrad's Online Calculator
upGrad Abroad’s CGPA to GPA Calculator makes CGPA to GPA conversion process quick and accurate.
How upGrad Abroad’s CGPA to GPA Calculator Helps You
Automatically converts your CGPA (10.0 scale) to GPA (4.0 scale) based on international grading policies.
Supports conversions for universities in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia.
Saves time by eliminating complex calculations and formula errors.
Steps to Use upGrad Abroad’s CGPA to GPA Calculator
Enter your CGPA or percentage from your academic transcript.
Select your grading system (e.g., 10.0 scale (India), 7.0 scale (Australia), or percentage-based).
Get an instant GPA equivalent based on the conversion standards of top universities.
Use the results to apply for higher studies abroad without worrying about incorrect GPA calculations.
Tip: Many universities provide their own GPA conversion charts, so check specific requirements before submitting applications.
FAQs on GPA & CGPA
Can CGPA be converted into GPA for foreign university applications?
Yes, CGPA can be converted into GPA, but there is no universal formula. Many universities use their own conversion scales. Some may require a WES (World Education Services) evaluation to standardize CGPA to a US-equivalent GPA.
Do all universities consider GPA while offering scholarships?
Not always. While many universities consider GPA or CGPA as a key factor for scholarships, other aspects like extracurricular activities, recommendation letters, research work, and entrance exam scores also matter.
Which grading system is better: GPA or CGPA?
Neither is better—it depends on the country and institution. GPA (4.0 scale) is widely used in the US, while CGPA (10-point or 7-point scale) is common in India and some other countries. Universities usually have conversion systems for admissions.
How do employers evaluate CGPA vs. GPA in job applications?
Employers often look at overall academic performance rather than a specific grading scale. Some may convert CGPA to a percentage, while others consider class ranking, projects, and internships along with grades.
Do USA universities accept CGPA from Indian colleges?
Yes, USA universities accept CGPA from Indian colleges but may require conversion to a 4.0 GPA scale. Services like WES, ECE, or university-specific evaluation guidelines help with this process.
What is the highest possible GPA and CGPA one can achieve?
GPA: The maximum is usually 4.0 (USA and Canada)
CGPA: It can be 10.0 (India, some Asian countries) or 7.0 (some European grading systems)
Is there a minimum GPA/CGPA required to study abroad?
It varies by country and university. Generally:
USA & Canada: 3.0+ GPA (7.5+ CGPA) for good universities
UK & Australia: 2.5+ GPA (6.5+ CGPA) minimum for many programs
Top universities (Ivy League, Oxbridge, etc.): 3.5+ GPA (8.5+ CGPA) preferred
Does a high CGPA guarantee admission to top universities?
No, top universities look at a complete profile, including research, extracurriculars, SOPs, and recommendation letters. A high CGPA helps but does not guarantee admission.
Can students improve their CGPA after graduation?
No, once you graduate, your CGPA is final. However, some universities allow re-examinations or additional coursework to improve grades before graduation.
Do all Indian universities follow the 10-point CGPA system?
No, some universities use a 7-point scale, percentage system, or letter grades. Always check your university’s grading policy before converting CGPA to GPA or percentage.
What should students do if their university does not provide GPA?
If your university only provides CGPA or percentage, check if the university you're applying to has a conversion formula. Otherwise, use WES or other credential evaluation services.
Can CGPA be converted to percentage in all countries?
No, conversion methods vary. In India, CGPA is often multiplied by 9.5 or 10 to get a percentage, but in other countries, conversion rules differ. Always check specific university requirements.
Does the difficulty level of courses affect CGPA calculations?
Some universities give weightage to course difficulty, while others have a flat grading scale. Generally, core subjects carry more weight than electives, but this depends on the institution.
How does CGPA impact higher education opportunities?
A strong CGPA improves chances for scholarships, internships, and admissions to competitive programs. However, universities also look at research work, extracurriculars, and entrance test scores.
Is a 3.0 GPA considered good for international universities?
A 3.0 GPA (around 7.5 CGPA) is acceptable for many universities, but top-tier institutions usually require a 3.5+ GPA (8.5+ CGPA). Some programs may accept a lower GPA if other qualifications are strong.
Bulbul is a self-driven professional and an expert writer & editor. She has been a part of the ed-tech industry for the past 2 years now and is motivated to provide study abroad aspirants with factually correct and relevant information. Her knack for impactful writing makes her blogs worth a read!
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